David Hagger is a self described bald headed man and former rock vocalist with a penchant for finery, convivial dining, and festive culture. Read his blog, The World Loves Melbourne, which celebrates the world’s most liveable city.

1. What is your prediction for the hottest travel destination in Australia in 2015?

In Australia, Hobart seems to be the destination that has turned the dial in terms of market share, and Mona is a growing draw card. Also Kangaroo Island in South Australia is proving more popular for those seeking exotic pristine wilderness and stunning beaches and accommodation. I look for where current and future investment is taking place.

2. What’s your favourite Melbourne restaurant of 2014?

Saint Crispin for its “very Melbourne” ambiance, fine inventive cuisine and outstanding upstairs bar and function area. It has “crashed the pack” as a newcomer and already has two hats from the Good Food Guide early in its history.

3. In your opinion, what is the best hotel in Australia at the moment?

In reaching different markets the Crown Towers in Melbourne for its views, service and all round facilities, the Park Hyatt in Sydney for its “pinch myself, I can’t believe these views”, and the Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island for its unique premium offering and wild wilderness outlooks.

4. What is the most exciting trend in the Melbourne food scene at the moment?

The most exciting trend is “affordable degustations”. Rather than an expensive entree and main, you are being offered multiple dishes and a variety of tastes for the same price.

5. What’s the hottest cuisine of 2014 and your prediction for 2015?

Hottest cuisine of 2014 is the BBQ trend of American and Korean BBQ. My prediction for 2015 is German bier halls and trend to fun fun fun, rising trend of healthy eating and superfoods, continued trend of Asian fusion, and increase in gourmet home delivery services.

6. What’s your favourite Aussie food / travel blog right now?

I enjoy The City Lane for its visual quality, insightful reviews and the way its brings in a large travel component and opens up South East Asia and the world. Paul is a savvy foodie and travel photographer and writer.

7. Anything you would like to add? Have you discovered any amazing hidden gems for food, travel, coffee, wine that you would like to share?

Hidden gems would include amazing dumplings at ShanDong Mama in Melbourne CBD, a sensational slice of Italy in the King Valley of Victoria for food and wine and excellent accommodation, Promised Land offering premium filter coffee service delivered to offices (New York style), and the rise of boutique Aussie distillers such as Four Pillars.